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Stakeholders in the Nutrition sector is calling for effective implementation of National Multi Sectorial Strategic plan to scale up Nutrition in the country.
Speaking at a One day Nutrition Stakeholders meeting in Abuja, The Executive Secretary, CS-SUNN, Mrs Beatrice Eluaka called on all Nigerians to work towards reducing the rate of malnutrition in FCT, and other parts of the country.
She added that Nutrition covers a whole lot of multi sectorial unit, and should not be neglected.
“No sector has the answer to the Nutrition challenge facing the country.
Education will shed the light on the necessary food combination, which will bring about food security.
The provision of potable water will prevent diarrhoea and water borne diseases.”
Similarly, she noted that adequate funding will go a long way in improving Nutrition in the country.
“For us to achieve the right result, we need to do the right thing. If you do not have a plan, you have no business advocating for the Government”.
“We want the Policy makers to understand Nutrition issues and fund the activities. Knowing fully well that having food to eat do not translate to adequate Nutrition”.
The Co Ordinator FCT CS-SUNN, Mrs Aji Robinson, stressed the fact that the implementation of the National Multi-Sectorial Strategic Plan of Action for Nutrition(NMSPAN), will reduce the incidence of malnutrition in the country .
“The Multisectorial plan has a new framework that will track all the resources to end malnutrition in the country.
In the same vein, she highlighted that the scourge of malnutrition is on the increase in Nigeria.
“The result of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey(MICS 2016/2017) shows that 43.6 percent of Nigerians under 5 are stunted, from 37 percent in 2013. The figures paint a gloomy picture for Nigeria”.
Speaking further, she hinted that it is only a multisectorial approach that is required to achieve the objectives outlined in the National Policy on Food and Nutrition.
“This approach will engender transparency and accountability, which will in turn attract more donor support, as Government’s commitment becomes visible to the donor community”.
The Acting Secretary Health and Human Services FCT, Mr Musa Abdul Raheem, who was Represented by Mrs Bukola Azeez, Senior Health Policy Officer, reteirated the need to scale up data on Nutrition.
While noting that the FCT Minister is working towards improving budget on Nutrition.
“Attention should be given to Nutrition budget, such that FCT has a better package.
We will ensure that stakeholders in the area of Nutrition improve the plight of the vulnerable ones”.
“We will ensure that stakeholders in the area of Nutrition improve the plight of women and children in the Federal Capital Territory”.
